Key Responsibilities & Operational Scope

The core responsibilities and primary duties for this position within Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) include:

• Strategic policy capability will be particularly important. We are looking for leaders who can frame complex and sometimes contested problems, integrate evidence and competing perspectives, understand whole-of-government and system implications, and provide authoritative advice on choices, trade-offs and consequences.
• Roles may be located in Canberra or other major capital cities. While some positions may have a preference for candidates based in Canberra due to business requirements, applications from candidates located in other Australian capital cities are encouraged and will be considered on merit.
• See the system – and what is coming next. Interpret the external environment, including economic, social, technological and whole-of-government developments. Identify patterns, dependencies and strategic risks and position DEWR for future requirements.
• Shape consequential policy and strategic choices. Frame complex issues for Ministers, the Secretary and Executive. Integrate evidence and diverse perspectives, develop credible alternatives, surface trade-offs and consequences, and provide authoritative advice where ambiguity, sensitivity or risk is high.
• Create coherence across complexity. Connect policy, delivery, regulation, people, resources, technology, data and partnerships so DEWR's effort is aligned around its mission and strategic objectives.
• Turn strategy into outcomes at scale. Build and lead a high-performing leadership cohort of SES and EL leaders to move major strategies and initiatives from intent to sustained execution. Balance resources and capability, establish accountability, manage strategic risk and maintain focus on public value and impact.
• Lead beyond organisational boundaries. Build coalitions across the APS and, where relevant, jurisdictions, industry, unions, employers, providers and communities. Influence at senior levels and create shared ownership of outcomes no single organisation can deliver alone.
• Drive system-level change to support Closing the Gap. Foster genuine partnerships with First Nations peoples, communities and organisations, embed First Nations perspectives in strategic decision-making, and influence policy, program and organisational settings to improve outcomes and contribute to the priorities of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
• Lead transformation and adapt the organisation. Recognise when established models are no longer sufficient. Challenge assumptions, make difficult choices and create the conditions for innovation, learning and responsible experimentation while maintaining delivery.
• Build institutional capability. Strengthen leadership depth, succession and specialist capability. Use data, digital and emerging technology intelligently and ensure the organisation can adapt to changing expectations, opportunities and risks.

Mandatory Eligibility & Security Clearance

Applicants must satisfy the following statutory and organizational requirements:

• Citizenship: Under section 22(8) of the Public Service Act 1999, candidates must generally be Australian citizens to be eligible for engagement.
• Security Clearance: The successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain an Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) security clearance (Baseline, Negative Vetting 1, or Negative Vetting 2 as required by the agency).
• Probationary Period: Employment may be subject to a probationary period, character checks, and pre-engagement screening.
• SES Band 2, First Assistant Secretary – Affirmative Measures, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
• Qualifications and Education
• Highly regarded candidates will bring a demonstrated track record of executive leadership, strategic judgement and delivery in complex environments. Relevant tertiary qualifications, professional accreditations, executive leadership development or specialist expertise may be advantageous depending on the role and function.
• RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme; declare you have a disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the job. For more information visit: https://www.apsc.gov.au/recruitability. This initiative/program is only applicable where the successful applicant will be employed under the Public Service Act 1999. Similar conditions may apply when employed under other Acts. For clarification please contact the advertising agency.

Working Arrangements & Public Sector Benefits

Work Model: Flexible. Details: Flexible working arrangements will be considered in accordance with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations SES 24(1) Determination.

Australian Public Service positions provide comprehensive Commonwealth benefits including a standard 15.4% employer superannuation contribution, attractive leave provisions, and structured career progression pathways across the Australian Public Service.